soldier beetle, two different black beetles (unidentified) – one large round and one long black (possibly a Rove beetle), buff-tailed bumblebee, large white butterfly, orange tip butterfly, peacock butterfly, various snails.

On 8 April 2014 the Flora & Fauna group saw these beetles along the banks of the Kennet & Avon Canal, Freeman’s Marsh, Hungerford.

Searching a few British beetle websites was unsuccessful until I found a site – “UK Safari” with a photo and description of a Bloody-nosed beetle.

If any U3A members can confirm (or dispute) this identification please let us know using the contact form on this website, or click here.

please click on the photo is you want to see the full size photograph.

Size: Approx 18 to 23mm long

Distribution: Found in many parts of Britain, especially the southern counties of England and the coastal areas of WalesMonths seen: April to September. Mostly active at night

Life Span: Approximately 9 – 12 months

Habitat: Grassland and heathland

Food: Cleavers (goosegrass) and Ladies BedstrawSpecial features: Bloody-nosed beetles are one of the largest leaf beetles found in the UK. They can sometimes be found walking slowly over grassy areas in spring and early summer. The body has an irridescent blue-black sheen, and the antennae have the appearance of a tiny black string of pearls.When viewed from above, the line down the centre of its abdomen gives the appearance of wing casings, but in fact the two halves are fused together. This is a flightless beetle.